Centre for Excellence


Darwin High School is a Centre for Excellence in Science and Mathematics.

About the C4E program

Students in our C4E program are provided with a range of opportunities that extend their learning beyond the normal classroom. This includes:

  • specialised scientific/mathematical learning opportunities through our industry partnerships with Xtrata and Conoco Phillips;
  • access to workshops through our C4E partnership with Charles Darwin University
  • opportunities to compete in local and national Science and Mathematics competitions
  • priority access to excursion opportunities including C4E trips 

All of our C4E teachers are qualified in two or more Stage 2 subjects.

Who is C4E for?

Typically our C4E program is for students aspiring to careers in engineering, including chemical and mechanical; mathematics; and science including biotechnology, forensic science, and medicine. Nevertheless, the program is open to all students who have a thirst for learning and demonstrated aptitude in Mathematics and Science learning areas.

Students who succeed in C4E are independent learners who welcome the challenge of taking on additional work and developing a greater depth and breadth of knowledge in the C4E learning areas. C4E classes follow the same curriculum as mainstream Science/Mathematics students but explore additional topics with a focus on cross-subject skills development through greater integration across subjects.

Special Programs Information Session

Year 9 students and families who are interested in our Centre for Excellence and Students of High Performance English programs are invited to attend an Information Session on Wednesday 5 June from 5.00pm - 6.00pm in the STEAM Theatre. 

How do I apply?

Entry into C4E is selective. This means students in Year 9 apply for a limited number of places and undertake a placement test.

  1. Complete the CompassTix registration form in the student’s name.
  2. Email a copy of the Year 9 Semester 1 report to [email protected] before the entry test date
  3. Complete the 2026 enrolment form and for students not currently enrolled at Darwin Middle or Nightcliff Middle the enrolment application form and submit either in person to the Front Office or via email to [email protected] prior to the entry test date. 

Entry Test Details

There is a cost of $10 associated with each special program entry test.

  • C4E Mathematics: Tuesday 9 September from 3.00pm - 4.30pm at Darwin High School. 
  • C4E Science: Thursday 11 September from 3.00pm - 4.30pm at Darwin High School

Final selection into the program is based on test results and past academic performance (evidenced through school reports). Students are selected for entry into C4E Mathematics, C4E Science or both learning areas depending on their aptitude. 

Please note will be unable to progress any special program applications until all of the paperwork has been received, to avoid any delays in the enrolment process please ensure all documents are submitted prior to Monday 8 September.

Click on the link below to register for the entry test by 3pm Monday 8 September. Late registrations will not be accepted.

The Compass App

Students and their families are encouraged to download the Darwin High School Compass app to their smart phone/tablet device. Compass app allows you to stay up to date with announcements and events, complete a range of e-forms for student absences and excursions and easily contact us via phone or email direct from the app.

© 2016 Darwin High School. CRICOS Provider: Northern Territory Department of Education, CRICOS Provider Number: 00780M, Course Code Intensive English: 048904G, Course Code Senior Secondary: 058744C

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